Softlung is the music project led by S.J. Kardash, a Canadian artist and producer from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. After parting ways with the internationally touring rock act Reignwolf - where he shared stages with legends like The Who - Kardash sought a personal outlet for his constant flow of songwriting. Softlung emerged as a platform for experimentation and unfiltered self-expression, allowing him to delve into themes of longing, reflection, and the pursuit of something greater.

Softlung’s debut album, Second Chances (2023), marked a quiet yet impactful beginning. Written on acoustic guitar in Kardash’s bedroom and carefully layered in his home studio, the record was a diary-like exploration of life’s challenges and triumphs. The album showcased a range of sounds, from the introspective warmth of Kurt Vile to the anthemic flair of Arcade Fire, earning a place in the Top 200 on North American college radio charts, positive reviews, and international exposure. Despite its solitary creation - Kardash played every instrument - it captured a universal resonance, embodying the raw honesty of personal storytelling.

With new music slated for release in 2025, Softlung is evolving. Inspired by the energy of live performances with a 5-piece band, Kardash’s upcoming work shifts from the intimate “bedroom sound” to a bold, festival-ready aesthetic. Drawing on influences like Bruce Springsteen and U2, he is crafting songs that imagine the electricity of a full band on stage. Recorded in part by the Atlantic Ocean in France and crafted around 1980s drum machines and synths, the new material embodies a balance of introspection and outward energy. For the first time, other band members have been making cameos in the recording process, infusing the music with fresh dynamics and collaborative spirit.

As a seasoned producer and studio owner, Kardash brings a wealth of expertise to Softlung. While his studio offers him the freedom to refine his vision without constraints, it also poses the challenge of endless possibilities. Yet for Kardash, the process itself is as rewarding as the outcome - a space where he can explore, experiment, and evolve. Rooted in deeply personal experiences but ready to embrace the grandeur of the stage, Softlung continues to push boundaries while staying true to its heartfelt origins.